Honey BBQ recipe served on a plate, by Pekin the Chef
Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsSlim ChickensHoney Bbq Recipe

Honey Bbq Recipe

Inspired by Slim Chickens
Time1h
Serves6

Indulge in our Honey BBQ, a tantalizing blend of smoky flavors and sweet honey that creates the perfect glaze for our tender, juicy meats. Each bite offers a delightful contrast of savory and sweet, making it an irresistible choice for barbecue lovers. Served with a side of crispy slaw and golden cornbread, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more!

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Ingredients

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Honey BBQ Sauce

Method

Honey BBQ Sauce

  1. 1

    Combine base ingredients

    In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine 2 cups ketchup, 1 cup honey, 1/4 cup light brown sugar, 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar and 1/4 cup water. Whisk until smooth.

  2. 2

    Add flavorings

    Stir in 1 tablespoon molasses, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 tablespoon prepared yellow mustard, 2 teaspoons smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper and 1/4 teaspoon chipotle or cayenne (if using).

  3. 3

    Simmer and reduce

    Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cook, uncovered, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened and glossy, about 12–15 minutes. Skim any foam from the surface.

  4. 4

    Finish for shine and balance

    Remove from heat and stir in 1 tablespoon unsalted butter until melted and incorporated. Taste and adjust: add up to 1–2 teaspoons more vinegar for brightness, or up to 1 tablespoon more honey for sweetness if desired.

  5. 5

    Cool and store

    Let the sauce cool to room temperature. Transfer to a clean jar or airtight container and refrigerate. Sauce will thicken as it cools and keeps up to 2 weeks refrigerated.

Crispy Slaw (side)

  1. 6

    In a large bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon honey and 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard until smooth. Season with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.

  2. 7

    Add shredded green cabbage (3 cups), shredded red cabbage (1 cup) and 1 cup grated carrot to the bowl. Toss thoroughly so the dressing coats the vegetables evenly.

  3. 8

    For best texture, refrigerate the slaw for at least 20 minutes to let flavors meld. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper or a splash of vinegar before serving.

Cornbread (side)

  1. 9

    Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease an 8-inch square pan or a 9-inch cast-iron skillet.

  2. 10

    In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup yellow cornmeal, 1 cup all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon salt.

  3. 11

    In a separate bowl, whisk 1 cup milk, 1 large egg and 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter until combined.

  4. 12

    Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix; a few small lumps are okay.

  5. 13

    Pour batter into prepared pan and bake until golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, 18–22 minutes. Let cool slightly, then cut into squares or wedges and serve warm with the Honey BBQ sauce.

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